Duster stays in Top 10 even after an abrupt cancellation by HBO

J.J. Abrams and LaToya Morgan are the creators of the criminal thriller television series Duster. Rachel Hilson plays FBI's first Black female agent, Nina Hayes, and Josh Holloway plays Jim Ellis, a professional getaway driver. The tale, which is set in 1972, centers on Nina and Jim's efforts to dismantle a criminal organization run by Ezra Saxon, played by Keith David.

It has eight episodes and debuted on Max on May 15, 2025. Duster was canceled by HBO Max after one season despite strong reviews and continued popularity. It remains in Top 10 on the platform. However, its cancellation highlights challenges faced by quality shows in today’s competitive streaming landscape.

More about Duster

In May 2025, J.J. Abrams and LaToya Morgan's murder thriller series Duster debuted well on HBO Max. The program, which was set in the 1970s was discontinued after just one season, despite the fact that it was highly praised by both viewers and critics. Even after the cancellation was announced, the series surprisingly remained in the Top 10 most-watched shows on the platform.

The series tells the story of Jim Ellis, a competent driver who works for a crime group, and Nina Hayes, the FBI's first black female agent. Their paths collide in a high-risk operation to bring down a prominent criminal leader. The show was recognized and appreciated for its interesting characters, gorgeous 1970s setting, and fast-paced narrative.

Duster did poorly on general watching charts, even though it was quite popular on HBO Max. It barely reached the Luminate Top 50 list, coming in near the bottom, and it was not included in Nielsen's Top 10 streaming originals. Even popular series require high platform viewing in today's streaming environment in order to land more seasons. Sadly, the show was unable to live up to those higher standards.

Duster now joins a long line of promising programs that were canceled despite glowing reviews and devoted fan groups. The show's cancelation, like that of Our Flag Means Death, has prompted issues about how streaming services determine which material to maintain. It also demonstrates how critical acclaim is no longer sufficient to ensure a show's continuation.

All eight episodes of Duster are still available to watch on HBO Max. While fans may be frustrated by the lack of a second season, the program is still a good crime drama worth viewing. The show with its distinctive setting, outstanding performers, and captivating tale, continues to captivate viewers, proving that even a canceled series can make and sustain an effect.

Cast of Duster

Josh Holloway plays Jim Ellis, a getaway driver in 1970s Phoenix. Holloway is most recognized for his portrayal of James "Sawyer" Ford on Lost, as well as his performances in Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol and Yellowstone.

Rachel Hilson plays Nina Hayes, a motivated FBI agent who was inspired by the bureau's first Black women. Hilson has been on The Good Wife, This Is Us, and Love, Victor.

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Ezra Saxon, a formidable criminal leader in Phoenix, is portrayed by Keith David. With parts in Platoon, Road House, and Requiem for a Dream, David is a seasoned actor who has won three Emmy Awards for his voice acting.

Wade Ellis, played by Corbin Bernsen, is associated with Jim's family. L.A. Law, Major League, and other television dramas are among Bernsen's well-known works. This ensemble gives the show's grim, crime-threatened 1970s setting substance.

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